Tigers and Magpies farewell Skando

After a string a farewells rivalling that of John Farnham?s final tour, the official farewell for Wests Tigers legend John Skandalis was held at Wests Ashfield on Thursday, December 7.

Skandalis was joined by fans, former teammates, coaches and club officials in celebrating his career at the ?Skando?s Leaving the Nest? Gala Dinner.

The emotional evening included video tributes and testimonials from those who knew him best.

David Trodden, Chairman of Wests Tigers and Balmain Tigers spoke very highly of Skandalis and the legacy that he leaves.

?Throughout the history of every football club, there is always one or perhaps two players who define their generation. Skando's legacy is that in his generation of footballers at Wests Tigers and Wests Magpies, he was that player?.

Trodden also presented a unique framed memorabilia piece to the England bound prop. The piece contains a DVD tribute from Wests Tigers players and staff as well as selected photographs from Skandalis? playing career.

Tributes for Skandalis continued with interviews from former team mates and club officials. Teammate turned trainer, Cherry Mescia, attributes the success of Skandalis to his continued consistency.

?John has been consistent for ten years now and that is hard to find in the current NRL competition?.

Wests Magpies also acknowledged the work of John?s wife, Jodie Skandalis, presenting her with a lovely floral arrangement.

?To play good football you need to be happy in all aspects of your life and Skando was, Jodie is to thank for this? said Kevin Hammond.